OWM Foundation Day: Deputy CM Parida Highlights Shakti App’s Role in Women’s Safety

Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida has described the Shakti app, launched by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, as a landmark initiative in enhancing women’s safety. Speaking at the second foundation day of Odisha Women in Media (OWM) in Bhubaneswar, Parida said the app would streamline the legal process for survivors of sexual violence, sparing them the trauma of repeatedly recounting their ordeal.

Parida emphasized that survivors of sexual violence often face emotional distress as they must narrate their experience multiple times—to their families, police, doctors, and courts. “With the Shakti app, survivors can record their statement once, and it will serve as valid evidence in court, eliminating the need for repeated testimonies,” she said.

She further announced that the government is planning to establish Odisha’s first all-women court, where the judge, lawyers, and staff will all be women. This, she explained, would create a supportive and reassuring environment for survivors to seek justice without fear.

The Deputy Chief Minister urged women journalists to conduct safety audits of cities to assess how secure they are for women. She assured that the government would support such initiatives and work towards creating safer public spaces.

Parida also encouraged the OWM to help aspiring women journalists by offering skill development programs and financial assistance. “Empowering women in media is crucial in shaping narratives that drive positive change,” she added.

The event recognized the contributions of women journalists, with Sobha Surin and Sumitra Sahoo receiving the OWM Award for Excellence in Journalism, along with a cash prize of ₹5,000 each. The annual OWM magazine, Arohi, was also unveiled at the event by Parida and senior journalists Uma Sudhir and Alka Sahani.

A special session featured women entrepreneurs from grassroots communities, including Bhagabati Sahu (Jajpur), Jayanti Maharana (Balasore), and footballer Pusparani Bhuyan, who shared their stories of perseverance and success. Senior journalists Sudhir and Sahani also spoke about the challenges faced by women in media.

Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das lauded women journalists for their role in advocating for gender equality and social justice. OWM President Kasturi Ray delivered the welcome address, while Secretary Minati Singha presented the annual report. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by OWM Vice-President Sharada Lahangir.